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The United Nations (UN) was formed on 24 October 1945. In the preceding six years, the world had witnessed several million deaths and enormous suffering caused by the use of force aimed at imperialist conquests. Against this backdrop, the victorious Allies felt the need for an international organization that not only brought the nations together but also made sure that the structure of the global political system would leave no loopholes for ambitious leaders to order their armed forces to cross borders and wage devastating wars. This chapter examines the achievements and the shortcomings of...

The United Nations (UN) was formed on 24 October 1945. In the preceding six years, the world had witnessed several million deaths and enormous suffering caused by the use of force aimed at imperialist conquests. Against this backdrop, the victorious Allies felt the need for an international organization that not only brought the nations together but also made sure that the structure of the global political system would leave no loopholes for ambitious leaders to order their armed forces to cross borders and wage devastating wars. This chapter examines the achievements and the shortcomings of the UN, the Bretton Woods Institutions, the Iraq invasion, and the bahudhā philosophy. The core philosophy of the UN reflects a pluralistic vision of the world where the aspirations of every state can be accommodated. This is in conformity with the bahudhā philosophy that emphasizes inclusiveness of all people, all societies, and all natural objects.